Criollo Horses Came to America as Spanish War Horses

A Stable Investment: Criollo Horses

While Lipizzaner and Friesian are most horse enthusiasts’ dreams come true, a far more realistic investment can be found in a Criollo. Dutiful and strong, these elegant animals offer riders the same level of obedience and beauty as their Spanish and Nordic cousins but at a far lower price point. This breed is the symbol of Latin American equestrian and was brought to popularity by the Gauchos, a legendary group of Argentine riders that transformed the horse into their most prized daily accessory. The Criollo was a Gauchos’ transportation, weapon, and best friend. As Criollo horses were bred from generation to generation in challenging South American plains, natural selection made them resistant to disease and physically superior to other breeds.

Criollo Horse

Criollo Horses Have a Storied Lineage

A war horse brought to the New World by Spanish conquistadores during the 16th century, Criollo horses were never given a proper lineage. The literal translation of Criollo is “creole” reflecting the horse’s lack of official legacy. In 1918 Emilio Solanet founded the studbook for Criollo horses, centuries after many other breeds were officially documented. This humble beginning is what may keep the price of a Criollo down in today’s horse market. Lacking the fame and glory of the Lipizzaner, a Criollo’s endurance, intelligence, and longevity is often overlooked.

Criollo Horses Have Healthy Genes

A horse that remains close to nature, the Criollo is a perfect companion for long outdoor excursions where the breed’s strong character is best experienced. The fearless independence of the breed is what often makes them a “one-man” horse. Protective of its master, a Criollo is often chosen for more experienced riders. North America is seeing an increase of Criollo breeding programs as the demand for the horse increases. Arguable one of the strongest breeds in the world, the Criollo offers owners some of the lowest costs of ownership. With minimal veterinary check-ups and no known breed-specific diseases, Criollo horses are perceived as a very healthy breed.

The North American demand for Criollo horses has made them too valuable to be exposed to the harsh realities of ranch life or the dangers of wide-open endurance contests any longer. Today, the once wild or semi-wild horse without a pedigree has become a fashionable staple in cowboy contests, cattle drives, and specialized breeding registries.